The launch of this year’s National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign (NDWCC) started off strong in the National Capital Region (NCR) as armed forces members and civilian defence team members took to the water for the annual VCDS canoe race. Over 30 canoe teams gathered on September 6 in a race to the finish along the Rideau Canal from Dow’s Lake to the Laurier Bridge. Alongside, volunteers and attendees supported their efforts, and cheered them on.

For some volunteers, such as Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Crystal Hache, it was their first time being involved in the NDWCC campaign “It was very exciting to be part of it as it was my very first year in the NCR,” said MWO Hache. “I got there bright and early to help with the set-up, and was surprised with how many folks had come out to volunteer.” The help from volunteers just goes to show how excited the entire Defence Team was to get started with the campaign.

Following the exciting competition on the canal, participants gathered at the Cartier Square Drill Hall for the official launch of the 2019 NDWCC. Guest speakers took to the stage, including this year’s Youth Co-Champion Michelle Hudon. “It was an honour to address the audience as the NDWCC Youth Co-Champion and to speak about our various efforts,” Hudon shared. “I look forward to various NDWCC events to come. In the meantime the Youth Council is working to engage with youth in this year’s campaign!” The importance of youth engagement in the campaign can’t be understated, and she is excited to ignite the flame within the younger members of the organization.

Members of the youth council unveiled this year’s NCR goal of $1,128,500. Chris Henderson, 2019’s NDWCC Champion then took to the stage to talk about the importance of this year’s campaign focus: veteran’s homelessness. “Our campaign reinforces bonds within the Defence community, especially for members of the CAF,” he noted. “These bonds last well beyond a members’ service – as they have for me. And those bonds can really make a difference when veterans face personal struggles.”

This issue resonates with the Defence Team, and plans are underway to highlight the outstanding work being done by organizations which support homeless veterans. Some of these organizations, such as Veterans House, Canadian Walk for Veterans, and Leave the Streets Behind, took part in the launch, setting up booths to help educate participants about veteran’s homelessness.

The event was a great success, and we want to thank everyone who took part. Donate to the NDWCC today, and watch for more opportunities to stand shoulder-to-shoulder for those in need.